Teach Cooperation

Not Just a Family Tree

Written by T. Dula

Materials:

Branch

Modeling Clay

Paint

Medium-Large Flower Pot

Child-safe scissors

Children model what they see! So why not teach them the importance of family and cooperation by creating your own family tree!  First you will need to find a large tree branch in your yard with enough twigs to hold a leaf for each family member.  Make a fun game out of searching for the branch.  Tell your family members that after everyone collects the branch that they feel is the BEST, the family will vote on the perfect one for the project.  After the family votes on the branch, place the branch in a medium to large flower pot.  Modeling clay can be used to hold it in place.  Next is the hard part-let it completely dry overnight! The excitement of the project will make this hard.  As a result, as a family talk about ways of recycling things found in nature to create other cool projects.  You can also create a family blog to teach others your findings! Once the branch is sturdy in its new home, give each family member an artificial leaf and a small amount of modeling clay (using a large amount of clay will make the leaf too heavy for the branch).  Tell them to press the modeling clay into the back of the leaf and gently cut around it with child safe scissors. Next, have everyone engrave their name on their leaf.  You can choose to paint the leaves and then attach the leaves by allowing the clay to mold to the chosen twig.  After everyone has finished their leaf, paint your family name on the pot and let dry. There you have it-your own family tree for all to see! Not only have you taught your children cooperation and the importance of family, you have also helped them learn patience and teamwork! Have fun!

Resources:

Hanson,L.& Kempskie,H. ( 2008). The siblings busybook. Minnetonka, Minnesota: Meadowbrook P